Skill Development Policies in Punjab and Their Impact on Women’s Empowerment

Abstract

This study examines the skill development policies in Punjab, Pakistan, and their multifaceted impact on women's empowerment, focusing on economic, social, and psychological dimensions. Drawing on a mixed-methods approach, it analyzes key provincial institutions (TEVTA, PVTC, PSDF) and initiatives including the Punjab Women Development Policy 2018, Mein Digital digital skills program, and recent Chief Minister-led trainings under Hunarmand Naujawan. Findings reveal significant enrollment growth among women (approaching 44% in some programs), with positive economic outcomes such as increased employment, income from freelancing and entrepreneurship, and reduced dependency. Non-economic benefits include enhanced decision-making authority, self-confidence, household status, and community roles, though gains are tempered by socio-cultural norms, mobility barriers, rural-urban divides, and implementation gaps. Quantitative comparisons and qualitative narratives highlight stronger impacts in urban areas compared to rural/Southern Punjab, underscoring the need for targeted reforms. The research concludes that while Punjab's policies offer a promising model for gender-responsive TVET, holistic enhancements addressing barriers and scaling successful interventions are essential for transformative, inclusive empowerment aligned with national and global gender equality goals.

Keywords: Women's Empowerment, Skill Development, Punjab Pakistan, Gender-Responsive TVET, Digital Skills, Rural Women